This chapter explores the critical role of narratives, in a narrower sense, in shaping leadership, follower behaviour, and organizational outcomes. It argues that narratives, far from being mere story-telling, function as strategic tools that guide decision-making and foster resilience. The chapter reviews the concept of narrative as a process of meaning-making that links individuals’ lived experiences with broader social and organizational contexts. Narrative is also considered a dynamic process that constructs and reinforces identities, enabling organizations to adapt to technological change and socio-political pressures. Leadership plays a crucial role in crafting and sharing narratives that align with organizational goals, while technology acts as both a tool and a medium for embedding narratives in organizational routines. Additionally, the chapter discusses the darker aspects of narratives, including the risks of false or misleading story-telling, which can undermine organizational integrity. It concludes by emphasizing the need for further research to develop a more holistic understanding of the roles that narratives play in shaping collective identity, their reciprocal influence on effective leadership, and their connection to resilience.

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Unlocking Organizational Potential: The Role of Narrative Identity

  • Ramanie Samaratunge

摘要

This chapter explores the critical role of narratives, in a narrower sense, in shaping leadership, follower behaviour, and organizational outcomes. It argues that narratives, far from being mere story-telling, function as strategic tools that guide decision-making and foster resilience. The chapter reviews the concept of narrative as a process of meaning-making that links individuals’ lived experiences with broader social and organizational contexts. Narrative is also considered a dynamic process that constructs and reinforces identities, enabling organizations to adapt to technological change and socio-political pressures. Leadership plays a crucial role in crafting and sharing narratives that align with organizational goals, while technology acts as both a tool and a medium for embedding narratives in organizational routines. Additionally, the chapter discusses the darker aspects of narratives, including the risks of false or misleading story-telling, which can undermine organizational integrity. It concludes by emphasizing the need for further research to develop a more holistic understanding of the roles that narratives play in shaping collective identity, their reciprocal influence on effective leadership, and their connection to resilience.